LEIGHTON ASSIGNED TO ROCKFORD

Chicago, Ill. - The Chicago Blackhawks announced today they have assigned goaltender Michael Leighton to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Leighton, 34, posted a 22-13-4 record, 2.26 goals-against average, .920 save percentage and five shutouts with the IceHogs last season. He also posted a 4-3 record, 2.59 GAA and .919 SV% in eight playoff appearances with Rockford. His five shutouts last season add to his career total (41) which is tied for second-most in AHL history, just four behind Johnny Bower's 45 set from 1945-58. Leighton was named the team’s Most Valuable Player for his efforts.

The Petrolia, Ontario native has 35 wins (35-41-14), a 2.97 GAA, a .901 SV% and four shutouts in 105 career NHL regular-season games over parts of eight seasons with the Blackhawks (2002-2004), Nashville (2006-07), Philadelphia (2006-07; 2009-13) and Carolina (2007-09). He owns an 8-4 record in 16 Stanley Cup Playoff games and holds the NHL record for most shutouts in a postseason series (3 vs. MTL in 2010 Eastern Conference Final).

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 17 vs. Texas Stars. Game Time: 7 p.m. The first 5,000 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs calendar courtesy of Mulligan’s Pub and Grill.